What Is This Tool?
This converter tool allows you to convert data transfer speeds between IDE (UDMA mode 4) and IDE (UDMA mode 1), two transfer modes used in the Parallel ATA interface for legacy computer storage devices. It helps evaluate and adjust transfer settings for older PATA hardware.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the amount in IDE (UDMA mode 4) units.
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Select the target unit IDE (UDMA mode 1).
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Click convert to get the equivalent transfer rate.
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Use the conversion results to understand relative throughput or adjust device settings.
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Refer to example calculations for clarity.
Key Features
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Converts between IDE (UDMA mode 4) and IDE (UDMA mode 1) transfer units.
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Supports legacy data transfer modes for PATA hardware.
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Easy to use and browser-based without software installation.
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Provides practical values for configuring and troubleshooting vintage IDE drives.
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Includes example calculations for quick reference.
Examples
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1 IDE (UDMA mode 4) equals 2.64 IDE (UDMA mode 1).
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3 IDE (UDMA mode 4) equals 7.92 IDE (UDMA mode 1) calculated as 3 multiplied by 2.64.
Common Use Cases
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Configuring or troubleshooting BIOS DMA transfer modes on legacy desktop computers.
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Benchmarking and maintaining older PATA/IDE storage devices in vintage systems.
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Evaluating relative throughput capabilities for data recovery from legacy IDE drives.
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Diagnosing compatibility and timing issues between IDE drives and controllers.
Tips & Best Practices
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Ensure proper cable type (80-conductor IDE cable) for IDE (UDMA mode 4) to maintain reliable signaling.
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Match UDMA mode selections according to drive and controller support to avoid data errors.
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Use conversion results to guide BIOS or firmware configurations on older hardware.
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Avoid mixing incompatible transfer modes when operating legacy PATA devices.
Limitations
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Theoretical maximum transfer rates may be reduced by hardware and system factors.
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Compatibility depends on controller and drive support; incorrect mode selection can cause errors.
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Conversion only applies to Parallel ATA interfaces, not modern SATA or NVMe devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (UDMA mode 4) signify?
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IDE (UDMA mode 4), also called Ultra DMA/66, is a Parallel ATA data transfer mode with a maximum theoretical speed of about 66.7 MB/s that requires an 80-conductor IDE cable for reliable operation.
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Why would I convert IDE (UDMA mode 4) to IDE (UDMA mode 1)?
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Users convert to IDE (UDMA mode 1) to evaluate or adjust transfer settings for compatibility or troubleshooting on legacy systems that require lower transfer rates.
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Can this conversion be used for SATA or NVMe devices?
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No, this conversion applies only to Parallel ATA (PATA) interfaces and is not applicable to SATA or NVMe storage technologies.
Key Terminology
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IDE (UDMA mode 4)
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A Parallel ATA transfer mode also known as Ultra DMA/66, offering a theoretical max throughput of about 66.7 MB/s using an 80-conductor cable.
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IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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An older Ultra DMA transfer mode of the Parallel ATA interface with a theoretical maximum rate of approximately 25 MB/s, used for timing and error-checking.
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Parallel ATA (PATA)
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A computer interface standard for connecting storage devices, commonly used in older IDE drives before the rise of SATA and NVMe.